-We are different in terms of our race, culture and religious backgrounds. Even though we are differents in those terms, we as Singaporeans are able to live in peace and harmony.
2) What are the challenges of multi-ethnicity in Singapore.
-In a multi-ethnic society like singapore, issues such as race and religion can be used to cause conflict among the different groups. How these issues are handled is crucial in ensuring that harmony is maintained.
The lack of understanding among the racial groups can create suspicion and unhappiness among the people. This may lead to outbreaks of violence among racial groups. In 1964, Singapore experienced race riots which resulted in 36 people dead and 560 others injured. Differences in racial beliefs and practices are also issues that can be used to create tension among the people in Singapore. This was illustrated by the Maria Hertogh riots in 1950. The outbreak of violence left behind destruction and loss of lives.
Transnational terrorism can also test the social bonds of the people in Singapore. Singapore need to handle these threats carefully as it can divide the people. In multi-ethnic societies like Singapore, race and religions may be used to craete ill feelings among the different ethnic groups. This can, in turn, threaten racial and religious harmony in the country. In 2001, Singapore experienced the threat of transnational terrorism. This can be illustrated by the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) arrests in Singapore since 2001. JI was responsible for the bombingof the J. W. Mariott Hotel in Jakarta on 5 August 2003, the Bali bombigns on 12 October 2002, and an attack against the Philipene Ambassador to Indonesia in August 2000. The Bali attack left more than 200 dead. Attacks on Singapore and other tourists spots in the region were also part of the JI's plan.
3) What were the measures taken to foster social cohesion (unity among the people) in multi-ethnic Singapore?
The policy of multi-racialism promotes equality among the races, with no special rights granted to any particular racial or religious group. Everyone has equal opportunities to succeed, regardless of their background. Favouring a certain group of people because of their race or religion is prohibited by the Constitution. Since everyone is seen as a valued member of the Singapore society, a sense of national identity of Singaporeans is created.
Common practices are actions that Singaporeans carry out together. Singing the national anthem, taking the pledge and attending the flag raising ceremony are examples of the common pratices carried out in schools. These common practices help to foster national identity. Inculcating loyalty and national pride towards Singapore is one way to get Singaporeans to see themselves as one people.
4) Why is it important to foster social coheison?
If people can live together in peace, this will bring about a better life for everyone. Harmony is Singapore has made progress possible. One of the benefits of living harmoniously in a multi-ethnic is the security and peace that all Singaporeans enjoy. People feel safe in Singapore. With peace and stability comes economic progress. Foreign investors invest and set up their companies in Singapore because their invesments would be protected.
5)Explore other ways to foster social cohesion in Singapore.
-Safeguarding the interests of the minority groups. The policy of minority representation gives minority groups a say in governance. It is also a way to safeguard the interests of the minority groups. The Presedential Council of Minority Rights (PCMR) and the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) are two examples of hoe representation of the minority groups is achieved. Another way is by self-help groups. CDAC, SINDA, Mendake and the Eurasian Asoociation play an important role in helping members of their community who are less fortunate to get aid in their studies and training for jobs. Self-help group also give moral support to members of their own community. This helps Singaporeans to cope and compete with one anotehr on an equal footing. By doing so, people from the minority groups will be ale to improve im their social and economic positions in the society.
-Developing common space. Common space refers to teh time and place people come together. This common space provides opportunities for Singaporeans to interact. Through this interaction, understanding amon Singaporeans from the different races can be deepened. Grassroots organisation sucha s People's Association (PA) create common space through their wide range of programmes and activities developed to cater to the needs and interests of every Singaporean.
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